PC’s Duncan Powell has been suspended for 3 games

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Providence forward Duncan Powell has been suspended three games following his ejection in Saturday’s 79-69 loss to No. 17 St. John’s.

Powell received a two-game suspension from the Big East Conference in addition to the automatic one-game penalty required under NCAA rules for fighting. The discipline stems from what the conference described as “combative actions” that occurred after Powell committed a hard foul on St. John’s guard Bryce Hopkins, which sparked a mid-game altercation.

In a statement Sunday, the Big East said officials determined through video review that Powell engaged in additional actions that met the criteria for fighting beyond the initial flagrant foul. He is set to miss Providence’s upcoming game at DePaul as well as home matchups against Xavier on Feb. 24 and Creighton on Feb. 28.

Providence Athletic Director Steve Napolillo said the school supports the conference’s decision. “Providence College holds its student-athletes and coaches to the highest standards,” Napolillo said. “His actions were unacceptable and do not reflect the values, discipline or sportsmanship expected of anyone representing Providence College.”

The incident occurred with 14:25 remaining in the second half. After trailing by as many as 13 points earlier, Providence had taken a 40-39 lead when Hopkins drove toward the basket on a fast break. Powell made contact with Hopkins’ head and face, sending him to the floor. Players from both teams quickly converged near the St. John’s bench, leading to pushing and shoving as coaches, officials and arena personnel attempted to restore order.

Play was halted for nearly 20 minutes while referees reviewed the sequence and assessed penalties. Powell and Providence guard Jaylin Sellers were ejected, along with St. John’s players Dillon Mitchell, Ruben Prey, Sadiku Ibine Ayo and Kelvin Odih.